Top Tips to Handle Delayed Flights

Delays Can be Less Stressful

As a seasoned traveler it never seems to amaze me how some members of the general public react when they hear that their flight will be delayed. Understandably so, most people are disappointed as the commitments they may have made once they arrived at their travel destination, now need to be changed. However, they often forget to think about the reality of the situation.

If the flight has a mechanical delay this obviously means that the plane is better off on the ground than in the air. It also means that they can take as long as they need to repair it or to obtain another plane. Sometimes flights are delayed because of a security issue.

Old Sayings

What's that old saying better late than never? If the plane is delayed when coming from another destination, screaming and yelling won't make it arrive any faster. Remember you are not the only one being inconvenienced, so why ruin everyone else's time during the delay by being a tyrant.

Delays Can Make Flights Safer

There usually is a logical reason for most flight delays and even if there isn't, there's not much you can do about it except to write a letter of complaint and hope for some sort of compensation.

In the mean time here are some tips on how to effectively handle flight delays.

The Top Tips

1. Phone the airline or check the internet prior to your departure to reconfirm flight times.

2. If you end up at the airport on time and then they announce a flight delay, depending on how long the delay is going to be, you may be entitled to food vouchers. Always ask if the airline supplies vouchers not all airlines do.

3. Keep your cell phone handy and charged in case you need to make phone calls.

4. Keep snacks in your carry on. Gum, mints, grains, snack bars or whatever your pleasure. Delays can not only be expensive time wise but food wise as well.

5. Have your mp3 player/iPod handy to drown out some of the usual airport noise. Try not to keep it on too loud as you still want to be able to hear the airport announcements.

6. It never hurts to have a magazine or book handy to keep your mind off the stress of the delay.

7. Travel light with your carry on. Nothing is worse than dragging around a heavy bag. Remember to keep it by your side at all times. Pick pockets love delays because people get tired and forgetful the longer they are at the airport.

8. A travel toothbrush, comb/brush, mini toothpaste, and Kleenex always come in handy if you're sitting around for hours. You might want to freshen up or need use the Kleenex as toilet paper.

9. A pen and paper is also helpful if you need to take down any important flight information.

10. If possible phone your car rental agency or hotel and let them know that you are delayed but will still be arriving, so that they don't consider you a no show and give your car or hotel room

away. This is not a concern if your delay is on your return flight home.

11. If you desperately need to get to your destination, check with other airlines at the airport to see if they have flights leaving earlier than your new scheduled departure time.

You will have to pay for the seat but it might be at a reduced rate and will get you where you need to be within a reasonable time frame.

For more information on dealing with airport delays consult the Airport Delays website.